Clouds of Tulle

Top. Gun.

2012-01-20T15:04:00.001-06:00

Crossing things off my list!!
(and added more!)

First activity - Shooting range.

This was really fun. I was pretty excited to do this, but when we got to the place I started getting nervous.

My friend was telling me a list of things not to do:

1. Don't put your finger on trigger until you're ready to fire.
2. Finger off trigger when loading the magazine.
3. Do not point the gun at anyone. (esp. him)
4. listen to what he says. (bc I never do, ha)
5. Dont' anticipate the recoil.
6. Don't lean back when you fire.
7. Don't bend your wrists.

Oh gawd. That's way too many things to remember! SO nervous- what if I accidentally shoot someone? What if I drop the gun and it misfires? omg. omg. omg.

We get all our equipment (ammo, and the HK P90 9mm) and I watch as my friend fires away at the target. Eh, not so scary at all. Then it's my turn and I stay calm, and try really hard not to turn my body with my head, and remembered not to place my finger on the trigger till I was ready.

That first shot was pretty awesome and recoil was not bad at all. My aim was a little off to the left, but my friend said at least it was consistent and not all over the place. haha. But yea, so fun! Definitely going again sometime soon. Goal is to get right on target! Apparently it has to do with my trigger finger, so just need to get that corrected and hopefully I'll be on target.

Made my other friend take a video of my first shooting experience.

.2012.

2012-01-07T11:07:00.001-06:00

New year, new me? I sure do hope so.

In all my 29 years I have never made a new years resolution. I plan to break that streak this year. So here are a few resolutions...

1. Run regularly - Last year around September I randomly, crazily, voluntarily decided to go jogging one day. Okay, this might seem like nothing but if you know me, you know I hate running. HATE with a passion. Probably because my endurance sucks- I can barely run down the block before I feel like I'm going to die.

But with no gym membership and a tight budget, running was the cheapest way to exercise. I have no idea how far or how long I ran but it actually felt good! Yay. I survived my first run in like 4 years! Running? not so bad after all.

After that I tried to at least run once a week. Of course the holidays got in the way and last week 01.03.2012 was my first run of the new year. Planning to run 2-3 times a week!

2. Try as many new things as possible - I realized, with some help, that I have never really done anything for myself. I'm a giver and I'm always doing things for others and even if I was trying something new it would be for the benefit of another person. Of course I have interests- fashion, design, art, music, photography but what I really want is to do things that I've never done before. So, this year I'm looking forward to a year of adventure.

A few things I plan on trying this year:

- Skydiving. Already made reservations for February! So scared but also so excite!

- Snowboarding. never been. Can't wait.

- ~~Shooting range.~~ Always wanted to know what it felt like to shoot a gun.

- Rock climbing.
- ride a motorcycle. behind someone. Don't think I'll drive one, but you never know I guess.

- bungee jumping
- white water rafting

List is short right now, but I'm sure it'll grow and hope it does!

3. Expand knowledge. Learn more. - Such as photography. Well I don't really have that much knowledge on this subject but I think I know basics. Enlisting roommate Dru to teach me more things. So hopefully I'll be getting more use out of my SLR.

Another hobby that I would like to pick up again is knitting. I've always loved knitting, despite people saying it's an old lady activity. It's actually quite relaxing! I only know how to knit scarves and stuff, but recently I saw a video on how to knit a beanie and I'm way excited to try it.

I also really really want to start sewing again. But of course this requires that I first get a sewing machine and a serger would be nice.

4. Be Happy - So simple, yet so hard?

You need to be happy with yourself before you can be happy with anyone else.

"There are dreamers and there are realists in this world. You'd think dreamers would find the dreamers and realists would find the realists but more often than not, the opposite is true." - Ben Karlin, Modern Family, 2o11

The HANA flat iron

2011-10-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Brian from Misikko recently contacted me about testing and reviewing a HANA flat iron.
I gladly accepted, of course.

This is what came in the mail!

How nice is that? Also, how did they know my favorite color was purple? =O

Anyway, so I basically straighten my hair everyday. Not that I have curly hair or anything, but my hair is a little frizzy and dries with little kinks in it. Yea, definitely not nice and straight. I wish it did though. So since it doesn't I have to tame it with a flat iron.

Now, the one that I own is definitely not fancy. I figured since I'm not really doing heavy duty straightening I can pass with a generic. And so I bought a generic CHI from Sally Beauty Supply. And hey, it works just fine. I have never owned a CHI or any brand name flat iron, so I was pretty excited to try this HANA out.

A couple of things I like to check off when getting a straightener:

1. material - ceramic of course
2. heat setting - the hotter the faster... the better?

The one Brian sent me was the HANA professional ceramic flat iron with Tourmaline. EVEN BETTER.
It also has several heat settings going all the way up to 450F degrees. NICE!
So I proceed to testing it out. I said the hotter the better right? Well this thing is HOT! The setting is at 370F and it works great on my hair. I presume if you had stubborn curly hair, the 450F setting would be awesome. Another thing I'm pretty picky about is the snag factor for hair tools. Hate it when my hair catches on tools and snags causing breakage! ugh. This HANA flat iron gets a thumbs up for no snagging. So all in all, the HANA is a very nice flat iron. My hair turns out super straight and smooth and it doesn't take long at all.

So to do a complete review and comparison of this product I actually borrowed a friends' CHI flat iron to compare. She has the original CHI 1" ceramic flat iron. I have to say, the CHI is pretty amazing. Glides super smooth down my hair and heats up pretty fast. But it doesn't have different temperature settings so you can't choose depending on hair type. So if the CHI is the best flat iron out there, I have say the HANA is really close to it. Well it's definitely better than my generic CHI. =T

The Misikko site actually sells both the Chi Straightener and the HANA along with other flat irons.
So please go check out the site!

Big thanks to Brian for giving me this opportunity!

BACK! (lets see how long I can keep this up)

2011-08-29T21:31:00.000-05:00

(WHOA. Blogspot looks so foreign to me now. Have I not updated in THAT long? yikes!)

Oddly, I have received several requests to update my blog, on mine and phi-style's formspring. Although I suspect all these requests are all from Dru!!! (HATE YOU)

So yay! new post.

I think the last time I updated I was still living at home with my parents. You know, post break up with Mike.
Yes. We are no longer together. Therefore no wedding. Yes. Sad face. But actually, I'm glad. I think deep down I knew it wasn't right. It just took a long time to really realize it and to move on.

So, I'm pretty sure most of you know phi-style and her husband have moved to Seattle, WA. And since they moved away, I now reside in their home in Houston with two other roommates (ugh, yah. Dru!!! is one of them). Honestly it was weird at first living here, I still felt like a guest. Like I was just spending another drunken night at Calder. Also I was apprehensive about having roommates. I don't usually do well with other people at home, because you know, I need space and sometimes - SOMETIMES- I just want to be messy (you should see my room right now).
But surprisingly it has not been too bad! So I'm happy, and I guess that's all that matters.

What's the best part about having Dru!!! as a roommate? He can take my outfit shots for me! yay. haha.

H&M tank, Abercrombie shorts, Joe Jeans Heels, Jewelmint bronze Zip bracelet, Fallon bracelet

Thanks Dru!!!

LIFE - I guess you're not so bad

2011-03-09T00:04:00.000-06:00

(pictures from xmas trip to San Francisco)

It's been awhile. I wonder if anyone will still care enough to click on this post. hmm....

So a few things since I've been MIA -

1. Christmas trip to SF - pretty good. Saw lots of family, actually too much family. An 18 person chinese family gathering is not very efficient, most of the time was spent deciding what to do after every meal... I almost felt like I was back in those good ol' high school days when we use to loiter around outside in the parking lot looking like gangsters.

2. Started a new job. Pros - long lunches with manager, free things (free Keith Urban concert/Rodeo tickets). Cons - no more free time to surf online during work hours.

3. Experienced my first snow storm - The new job sent me to the company's headquarters in NJ during which they had a snow storm. First ever real snow experience and it was pretty awesome. The city literally looked like what you would see in movies. Mounds of snow everywhere on the street, and snow hanging from trees. It was actually quite beautiful.

4. 30 day yoga challenge - Tramanh, Seo, Karine and I embarked on a journey of yoga. One class of yoga/pilates every day for 30 days. Not as hard as you would think. Felt pretty good actually. The only hard part was that it took up a big chunk of your night after work and got in the way of usual night activities - i.e. no time for random shopping (a good thing for my wallet I suppose).

5. Planned my first trip to Coachella! Includes, of course, the whole gang. EXCITINGS.

6. Next up - TECHNOLOGY FAST. Starting tomorrow 3/9/11.
What is this? Basically for 30 days the gang and I are subjecting ourselves through the torture of no internet, tv, smartphones, etc. We can still use the computer for work related and creative purposes i.e. editing pictures or videos, listening to music. But we can't use the computer for mindless internet surfing which includes facebook and twitter. Also no texting, but we can call people.

The purpose of this was to open up more time for social activities and personal interactions instead of wasting time looking through weird news.. things.

As of right now I'm sort of worried about what I would do with all this time and that I might accidentally turn on the TV in the morning, since my morning routine usually includes watching the Today show on NBC. I guess we'll see.

So, hopefully I'll be back after these 30 days of hell. But who knows, it might actually be life altering... but for now -

My family and my Grandma.

Get the Vapur.

2010-12-15T09:39:00.001-06:00

Hello all~!

Its been awhile huh? These past couple months have been a little crazy, unsettling and is taking some time to get use to but I think it's time to finally continue this blog! So why don't we start out with a little product review.

Recently Erin from OrganicWorks contacted me about sending me this very cool water bottle called the Vapur. I have heard of it before but didn't think much about it at the time, but i have to admit this bottle is pretty awesome. WHY? Foldable, reusable, and dishwasher safe! Way easy to carry around with you than those bulky plastic water bottles, therefore most ideal when traveling or on the go anywhere, like shopping while on vacation? yeaaa man.

Vapur is also very environmentally friendly and totally have a purpose in the world. Did you know it takes 17 million barrels of oil each year to make water bottles for the U.S. market? And that tap water in the U.S. is totally safe and drinkable, and that about 24% of bottled water is actually repackaged tap water?
O.M.G. - You can read more about Vapur's purpose here.

Vapur bottles come in 6 different colors and are .5L in size. But recently they came out with the "Fun Size" two pack which comes in 3 colors and are .4L big. They're very affordable too! $9.99 for the .5L and $15.99 for the two pack option. Plus right now they're having a 20% off deal!

photo credit StudioDru

Shit Happens

2010-11-11T12:50:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. Hopefully I'll be checking back in later with more outfits posts.

But for now I'm still on Twitter. =)

..............

Tan & Red

2010-10-13T22:48:00.004-05:00

UO shorts, Forever 21 shirt, belt, and accessories

The boys were out of town this past weekend, so we had a girls weekend at home.
Road trip to the new 80,000 sqft forever 21 and came back with a trunk full of yellow bags.

This shirt was one of the new purchases which unfortunately acquired a huge grease stain after an eventful saturday night. But the burgars and fries were worth it. =)

More pictures of Chewie and Butter here if you like them! =)

............

Go outside.....

2010-10-11T21:54:00.001-05:00

FALL IS HERE!

It has finally started to cool off here in Houston so we decided to venture outside for a stroll..... to American Apparel. ha.

Then later that week we went to see Two Door Cinema Club with phi-style.

I have to say.. the flash on the iphone 4 is pretty good.

...............

A reader asked for more pics of my dogs... so here is Butter.

................

Can't wait for this weekend. IT WILL BE AWESOME.

...............

Baby don't gooooo

2010-10-06T19:56:00.001-05:00

Singing Baby Don't Go - Alex To (who knows this song??)

Karaoke time!!! Mike loves to karaoke.... in Chinese. =D

Yes we finished that whole bottle of goose.. and two other ones and some other types of alcohol.. I think...
Yeaaaa, I don't even remember taking that second picture.

....

Happy 3-0!

2010-10-03T22:19:00.000-05:00

VS shirt, F21 shorts and necklace, JS Dany platforms

Put this on for Mikee's birthday dinner last Thursday. He just turned the big 3-0!
Did some karaoke afterwards, then again last night... more about that later.

In other news, moving apts in 3 weeks! All weekends are full...... when am I gonna pack?! aaahhh

i be ridin'

2010-09-27T20:59:00.001-05:00

F21 shirt and wedges, target shorts

Sorry for the lack of posts! Lots of things going on lately, plus blogger is blocked at work now and that's when I usually update. =P

Yes, I AM wearing bicycle shorts. eeek. I was tired of wearing my usual jean shorts and I figured that this shirt was long enough to cover my buttocks.

OH, and these shoes? Very comfy. =)

times sure are changing

2010-09-22T21:55:00.002-05:00

UO shorts, AA crop tee, F21 wedges

Been looking at apartments lately (yes.. moving.. again), and we finally found a place that we really liked. And I mean really, genuinely liked. You know how some places are gross, some are decent and acceptable, and then some are pretty good, but this place was REALLY GOOD. It's not as big as the one we're in now but the layout great and you don't feel cramped. I'm excited.

While we were driving from apt to apt we passed one that we had stopped and looked once while searching for apts about 3 years ago. It was a nice place but we didn't choose it because it wasn't in our budget at the time. Interesting, since the rent at that time is way under our budget now. I guess we are growing up after all.

the X

2010-09-14T21:44:00.000-05:00

photos by theXphotography

A couple months ago I met up again with Calvin of The X Photography for another shoot.

In a hotel lobby just as guests were arriving for a wedding.... so much staring. Definitely more awkward than the last time.

Winner Winner Winner

2010-09-01T20:09:00.000-05:00

alexander wang shirt, target shorts, JS Dany platforms, F21 accessories

Congratulations to Brianne for winning the Erin Wasson ring giveaway!

Look! I've been featured on pocketchange section of become.com as one of the style blogs of the week. And while you're there check out the rest of the site. Pocketchange is an advice blog and shopping source with sections for almost anything in life, from mens fashion to advice on keeping your pets (and you) healthy and happy.

it's the simple things

2010-08-31T18:52:00.000-05:00

Couple of weekends ago we went to a small local Japanese market here in Houston to pick up some fish to make our own sashimi platter. We're not sushi chefs but we cut the fish the best we could. Lets just say we get a 0 for presentation. But it was still good!

Why is the wasabi squeezed out like poo? NO IDEA. But lol every time I see it.

In other news, I was occupied the past few weeks in preparation for Tramanh's bridal shower, which was this past Saturday. I think it was pretty successful except for a slight fondue disaster. =T Thankfully, Tramanh's mom was able to save it for us. =)

Today is the last day to enter the Erin Wasson Ring Giveaway!

yay for A GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-24T09:54:00.000-05:00

Erin Wasson Deco Ring

yay giveaway time!

This is only my second time hosting a giveaway so I'm super excited!

Chin Lu at DesignerApparel.com has given me this awesome opportunity to host this Erin Wasson Deco Ring giveaway for my readers. If you didn't know yet DesignerApparel.com is a shopping search engine where you can you search for a brand, such as Gucci, 7 For All Mankind, and even smaller labels like Akris, and they'll so show you where you can find them!

How to win this ring?

1. Leave a comment on this post w/ your name and email address

Want to double the chances?

2. Follow me on Twitter!

(Unfortunately this giveaway is only available to readers in the U.S. or Canada)

I will randomly choose a winner next week on Tuesday, August 31.

Good luck guys!

Why oh Why

2010-08-23T20:42:00.000-05:00

F21 tank, target shorts and wedges, AA bra

Have I been complaining about work too much? HA.

So, some time ago the "higher beings" at my company found out that employees were shopping online during work hours, and some unfortunate co-workers were unjustly penalized. I say unjustly because, well, WHO doesn't do a little online browsing at work? If you don't want people to go to those websites then you should just block them. After that incident I have been cautious at work but still being a rebel once in awhile. =P

But I guess they got smart because now everything is blocked.

No more Twitter and no more Facebook. I'm waiting for the day they block gchat in gmail, then I'll definitely cry. Good thing I got that iphone, I guess I'm not totally doomed.

Breakfast love

2010-08-13T16:21:00.000-05:00

F21 shirt, target shorts, F21 necklace, JS Dani platforms, express bra

I love this shirt. I want to wear it all the time.

I was browsing through this store here that sells everything Japanese and came across this heart shaped cookie cutter thing. The picture (everything is written in Japanese) on the packaging showed that it makes a heart shaped sunny side up egg.

HOW CUTE.

I had to stop him from devouring the egg so I could snap this pic. haha.

I suppose you can also make this with a heart shaped cookie cutter.

When life throws you lemons....

2010-08-11T14:11:00.000-05:00

target shorts, american rag shirt, vince camuto shoes, F21 accessories

Blurry pics again..... the wireless remote broke. BROKE! Grr to you Gadget Infinity.

30 more days till my just-gave-birth co worker comes back to work = hell for me. @_@

Believe me, I'm serious

2010-08-04T16:32:00.002-05:00

F21 blouse, H&M skirt, L.A.M.B heels, F21 accessories

Pimple alert! This one is under the skin and a lot of hurty. It's died down and doesn't hurt anymore, but I can still feel a bump and I know it's going to leave a terrible scar. Advice to make this go away without or with minimal scarring? HALP ME.

*****

Bought these shoes awhile ago on sale and this is my second time wearing them. I usually don't wear shoes that are backless (besides sandals/flipflops) because I'm afraid the shoe will swing off my foot hit me in the face, but these are high enough that they stay on and you won't hear me coming from a mile away. Plop-plop!

BUT, they hurt.

A LOT.

JS Dany platforms are way more comfortable.

***
Almost forgot to mention my hair! After 6 months of grueling torture, my hair is finally sans split ends and I have bangs again.

Lets hug it out

2010-07-30T17:21:00.000-05:00

VS shirt, F21 shorts and necklace, JS Dany platforms

Sorry for lacking in substance lately, work has been CRA-ZAY. This girl went on maternity leave and I've taken over her job duties <--- (i always think of Chandler in Friends when I say that word). But man, I've basically been running around scrambling to get things done.

BUT - went to see Lady Gaga this past Monday. Ahhh-mazinggg.

And we just started watching Entourage. I know, I know... we're late to catch on, but hey we loves it! My favorite are Ari and Lloyd. haha.

I lol to the last part of this video everytime...

woo woo!

Can't think of one

2010-07-22T17:22:00.000-05:00

F21 shirt, target shorts, JS platforms, birthday necklace from phistyle

These shoes are surprisingly very comfortable despite being 6" tall.

Watching Eclipse tonight!

BUT- there wasn't a sign

2010-07-19T19:53:00.004-05:00

express tank dress, thrifted belt, kenneth cole necklace

Wore this last week to have dinner with a couple of co-workers at Dolce Vita. Dinner was mellow and pleasant with some wine, pizza, and truffled egg toast. You know, I had a good time until I found out my car got towed.

"Where is my car? It was there right?!"
"Yes, it was where that Altima is now."
"Then WHERE IS IT!? Where's the No Parking sign?"

Turns out the no-parking-tow-away-zone sign was down the block on the OTHER CORNER. How am I supposed to see that from THIS corner?!

ugh.

OH, but not only did they tow my car, I also got a parking citation. Come on now, SRSLY?!

mixing prints

2010-07-13T15:51:00.001-05:00

F21 tank, american rag shorts, target shoes, ae belt, F21 accesorries

For phistyle's birthday we all drove up to Austin to celebrate.

I love Austin, TX. I mean I would choose Austin over Houston in a split second. I love the city, the scenery, the buildings, the hills, the people, and the weather! OH MY the weather. It is like SO MUCH better than Houston. I mean it's still hot but it's comes with a breeze and way less humidity.

I went to college in Austin and I remember being so relaxed there. I never had to worry about who I wanted to be friends with and who I was supposed to be friends with. I didn't have to worry about what I wore to class or who I was walking to class with. Like you know, if I was hanging out with some white girls I wouldn't be labeled for being a twinkie. I know, wtf right?

I remember during my first year in Austin, I was walking to class with a friend, who happened to be Hispanic, and I found myself anticipating what kind of looks we would receive from the people who saw us together. And no one looked at us like we were crazy or something. I was surprised but at the same time it was really refreshing. Although I think at that time I sort of imagined those people giving me looks even though I know they didn't. haha.

So anyway, my point being, Austin to me is like social freedom. Sometimes I wish I still lived there. Maybe I'll move there someday. WHO KNOWS.

New Things

2010-07-09T14:34:00.000-05:00

JS Dany platforms, F21 shirt, necklace, and cuff

back of my head using my camera wireless remote. FINALLY.

Also using spin pins I found out about from Don't eat my rice!!

Alright I'm off to Austin! Have a great weekend guys!

Free shipping ya'll

2010-07-02T11:56:00.001-05:00

Silk leopard print button down blouse & silk turquoise blue button down

Hello. MTM is still offering free shipping, and these blouses have just been added!!

Fun stuff

2010-06-29T15:20:00.000-05:00

aa tulip skirt, target wedges, F21 shirt and accessories, la dama rosary

We had a great time this weekend running all over town running errands this past Saturday.
This is how the day went:

lunch at Hooters. (he likes the wings)
Borders to purchase The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest.
random car shop to get some headlight bulbs.
Best Buy for some browsing.
Apple store to ogle at the new iphone 4. It is pretty cool guys.
picked up some bangles at F21. And he got a shirt too. =)

Then we headed home for some laziness before going out to dinner. We really wanted to have egg toast but the Gay Pride parade was happening on that street so we opted out of spending 30 min. to find parking and went instead to our favorite place for mussels, Cafe Rabelais. Seriously, this is the best place for mussels in Houston. Then we ended the night with some drinks at a bar, as usual. =)

Dots and me

2010-06-24T10:51:00.001-05:00

american rag shorts, aa tank, express bra, asos heels

Stuff on my mind:

New Job. My current job sucks. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad that I DO have a job, but I think it's time for a new one...
Going back to school. - not sure for what yet, still deciding...
Start sewing again. - It's a good thing I still have those sewing books from college. I might have forgotten a few techniques.
New apt. - Need roomier kitchen. I feel claustrophobic in mine right now.
working out.
still waiting on that white iphone 4.

Please pay no attention to that bruise on my leg. It was the result of too many vodka sodas.

** More than Mint is offering free shipping on all domestic orders!! **

Please stop by!

You make me hot

2010-06-18T14:49:00.001-05:00

F21 ensemble, express bra

I swear Houston weather does not permit us to wear anything other than shorts and a tank. Anything extra and you die. Like this headband - head so hot and sweaty. And I think I heard someone say "your hair is crazy" at the end of the night....

So, is anyone else getting the iphone 4? Why is the white one not available yet?? I hate them.

Orange Shirt

2010-06-14T16:34:00.001-05:00

F21 shorts and accessories, bday tank from Issa, Revlon Minted nail polish

Orange shirt - Discovery

Is it Monday only? Ugh.

Had a pool party this weekend with phi-style and issarocks! Fun times. Got my tan on and ate some grilled cheeses sandwiches. I probably shouldn't have done the latter, but it was yummy so almost no regrets.

I'm SO behind on social stuffs, e.g., FB, blog reading, my formspring, does TV count?

**selling my ipod touch! Email me if you're interested! **

Blurrry

2010-06-09T20:29:00.000-05:00

F21 shirt, American Rag shorts, target wedges, F21 anchor necklace

Please excuse that loop in my hair. What happened? And why my photos always so blurry? =(

I love target and I always browse through the shoe section, but I rarely buy anything other than their sandals unless it's something really good.... like these wedges. Real leather upper, cork heel, and super comfy. I couldn't resist.

OH. And these shorts? on sale. I also have them in black with white polka dots.

Also, new things posted on More than Mint.

Gucci anyone?

take a peek

2010-06-01T10:19:00.001-05:00

Do you even care what's in my bag?

- LV coin purse that I use as my wallet. (planning on getting a new bigger wallet)
- Mytouch HTC cell phone
- ipod touch
- my melody planner and checkbook
- CLEAN roll on perfume
- pill box with mirror
- clinique powder
- MAC slimshine in lovey-dove and swelter
- Clean & Clear oil control film
- Rosebud mint lip balm
- Burt's Bees Res Q ointment (for those nasty mosquito bites)
- altoids smalls

So that's what's in my bag. There were also tons of new and old, faded receipts - but who wants to look at trash? =)

The extra photos of my purse are there because it's new and courtesy of Maeko from Thereafterish. She was so sweet to send me a gc from Macy's for my birthday in April and I decided to get this bag. I chipped in some extra money of course. =) The sales lady kept telling me that I would not regret getting this bag, and I have to admit that she was right. It's big and flat so it hold a lot of stuff but everything stays in place. AND I like all the noise the hardware makes.

Yes I know it's long entry this time but I have become fascinated with this KOR ONE water bottle after seeing Tony Stark handle one in Iron Man 2:

I know $30 for a water bottle sound totally absurd.. but.. it's so pretty. In the movie it makes a noise when Tony Stark opens the top.

I like that noise.
I also like Robert Downey Jr.

falling behind

2010-05-20T17:13:00.004-05:00

One of those days when I walk out the door and realize I'm wearing head to toe in F21. =T

Why are my necklaces always in disarray? I guess that's what happens when you have to run into place. Really need to get that wireless remote for my camera......

when the new isn't really that new

2010-05-12T11:11:00.002-05:00

F21 jumpsuit and accessories, Old Navy wedges, LV speedy bag

NO LIPSTICK! This is what I usually look like on work days. It never stays on at the office anyway. I think it's because I tend to touch my lips while I'm thinking/working. Unconscious behavior.

Anyway, I was rummaging through my old box of shoes the other day at my parents house and found these shoes. They must be at least 4 years old and from Old Navy. I haven't even been in that store in forever, so yea, they're pretty old. They are quite comfy though not as tall as I like.

For Mother's day my family and I had lunch. We don't have any other family here in Texas so we usually do something really casual for birthdays and major holidays. Well for mother's day this year I really wanted to have something other than Dim Sum, because we have Dim Sum for EVERY occasion. I suggested Mexican, but dad insisted on trying this new place in Chinatown. And what do they serve for lunch? DIM SUM!

J. crew

2010-05-08T20:56:00.000-05:00

J.crew necklaces. I wants.

(All are Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew except last one.)

detox and work outfit

2010-05-04T11:46:00.003-05:00

F21 silk blouse and necklace, thrifted/vintage skirt, nine west heels

(Sorry I look "unamused" in the first picture. Please don't take it the wrong way. I love my reader very much!)

I decided last minute to join in on all the detoxing fun with phi_style, Dru!!!, and our friend Seo.

So our week long journey ends and may I say that I am so proud of all of us. Not only did we endure 1 week of only drinking spicy lemonade (yes, I said spicy), none of us cheated at all!! So proud... so proud.

I'm pretty amazed that you can survive with only less than 500 calories a day. Also, none of us really felt the hunger, only the need to chew and eat something, that was the hardest part. Which is probably why the four of us frequently sat around and talked ONLY about food the whole week.

Now that it's over, I think I'm going to try to maintain this mentality and only eating what I need to eat and not what I want to eat. But I want to eat ALL THE TIME. We'll see how this goes.

Would I do it again? I might, in the future if I ever feel like I've lost that self-control of eating too much unhealthy foods too often. And it's a nice way to cleanse your taste palette because right now I can probably taste everything without eating a handful of it, which is pretty nice.

More than Mint

2010-04-29T11:08:00.005-05:00

These items on sale now at More than Mint!

I feel like the summer inside

2010-04-26T12:31:00.003-05:00

target crochet cardigan and shorts, UO silk tank, BCBG heels, LV speedy bag, nameplate necklace, F21 accessories

photos by The X Photography

My weekend was jam-packed and awesome. Celebrated multiple birthdays (including my own) and still got to meet up with my friend Antonio of The X Photography for some coffee and picture snapping. We decided to meet up at a local coffee shop, not only was it hot it was also quite busy inside and on the patio. All these contributing to the awkwardness of getting my picture taken, but surprisingly nobody cared or stared. I <3 hipster places.

Yesterday Christine took me to dinner for my birthday, stay tuned for her food porn post!!

Currently obsessed with Sunshine - by Picture Book

Black and White

2010-04-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

thrifted silk blouse on sale at More than Mint, F21 shorts and shoes, fcuk belt, necklace from my grandma

photo by The X photography

I met up last week with a friend from back in high school. Last time I saw him was maybe about 2 years ago. I only keep in touch with a few people from high school and he happens to be one of them, and it was quite nice catching up over hot pot and meat sauce over rice.

So we chatted a bit and he told me that he's really into photography now so of course we made plans to meet up sometime shoot some photos! Hopefully it'll be soon!

The last photo was shot by him while playing around with his camera.
__________________________________________________________________________________

Please check out More than Mint for these items.
(B&W print blouse from above is also on sale!)

a tribute....

2010-04-19T14:06:00.001-05:00

UO tank, target shorts, F21 shoes and accessories

I imagine this is what I would wear to Coachella... if I went.

Okay maybe not the shoes. Don't know how the heel would work while walking through a field of grass...

I POSE

2010-04-15T12:27:00.005-05:00

chiffon pleated tunic on sale at more than mint, Fcuk belt, la dama sunnies, crystal bracelets

I just had a Grapple and it was goood.
I wish I was at Coachella right now, but it's ok because I'm going to try to catch Phoenix when they come to Houston on the 30th. yay!

Phoenix live in Sydney - Lisztomania

Please visit More than Mint if you haven't yet!

(Also those crystal bracelets I'm wearing will be up for sale soon!)

No, i'm wearing shorts

2010-04-13T22:28:00.003-05:00

striped cardigan from asian boutique, target shorts, F21 accessories and shoes

What I wore this past Sunday to a good burger lunch and movie with my friend/co-worker Christine.
Saw How to Train Your Dragon in 3D and it was awesome! This was my first 3D movie since, like, Spy Kids, and it is SO much better now. I was pretty amazed. Afterwards we took a walk through the mall, the sales girl at the MAC counter said she liked me dress. I had to tell her that it was a cardigan and that I was wearing shorts. =P

Speaking of Christine, she asked me to join her in opening up a store and now More than Mint is finally open! Hop along over there for a peak and don't hesitate to purchase anything either!

ALSO, Anh from Anhesty awarded me a Happy 101 Award. YAY to my first blog award!! And now I have to name 10 things that make me happy....

1. Friends and Family

2. Shopping

3. My dogs, Butter and Chewie

4. seeing my grandma in San Francisco

5. television

6. finishing a good book

7. eating a good meal

8. SHOES

9. traveling

10. having some good ol' alone time

(new blog layout!! there's something new in the sidebar... Curious about something? ask me!)

Old pics and a very serious response

2010-04-09T22:33:00.001-05:00

Pictures that made me smile while looking through my FB pictures:

The Ho Cousins

Ocean Park in HK.

OLD FRIENDS.

NEW FRIENDS.

CHEWIE doing crazy face.

and of course, BUTTER. (so much calmer as a baby.... in a box)

And to respond to my anonymous commenter from my previous post:

No, I do not feel "dwarfed" by my friend, her clothes, house or her success. First of all, she is my friend whom I respect, admire and love. Of course I recognize her success but I also know she has worked hard to get where she is and to say that I feel intimidated or "dwarfed" by her would seem much too shallow and quite honestly, disrespectful. Sure, I'm sometimes envious of what my friends' have that I don't, but not everyone is the same and no one can be the same. People all have their own paths in life, roads to take, problems to overcome and struggles to deal with, why waste your time on trying to someone else when you can embrace who you are and enjoy it. I'm not saying I have the perfect life (which I'm sure no one can say that they do), but I'm not saying that I have a shitty life either. I know who I am and I try to make the best of it. Honestly, I think that's all that matters. But- thanks for your concern.

A+ thrifting

2010-04-05T20:53:00.006-05:00

thrifted silk blouse, F21 shorts, vince camuto shoes

I've never been much of a good thrifter. Too many things, so overwhelming, not enough patience.

But I did go one recently and found this pretty blouse. 100% silk! SO GOOD.

Some news: A co-worker asked if I wanted to help her sell some stuff online so of course I agreed. Stay tuned for the debut of the new store!

i dream in color

2010-03-25T11:57:00.000-05:00

express jean leggings, F21 shirt, vince camuto shoes, F21 accessories

I told you guys the next post would be more colorful. ha.
I really need to get a remote for my camera. pictures so blurry. =(

I came across this shirt in Forever 21 a few months back and instantly thought of Jessica Szohr's alter ego Vanessa Abrams of Gossip Girl. Then I realized that I haven't worn anything THIS colorful in a long time. I put it on my arm along with the other 10 black items already there, and amazingly it made it all the way to the checkout counter. It has been hanging in my closet since it was too cold to wear it out, but this past weekend was warmer so... this is me in color.

Also, coincidently Ed Westwick was totally in my dream last night. Only he was Chuck Bass. Is it inappropriate that I also made out with him said dream......?

But I do love me some badass Chuck Bass.

DARK

2010-03-22T12:16:00.005-05:00

F21 jumpsuit, shoes and accessories, express necklace

I always think of interesting topics and things to write about when I'm either in the shower, driving to and from work, or about to fall into a deep slumber. But writer's block instantly takes place when I sit in front of the computer. I always hope that by the time the pictures are up that I would have thought of something to write about... but nope. This is NEVER THE CASE.

I think I should start carrying a recorder around with me so I can document all my thoughts.

But then again, the thought of listening to every crazy thing that come across my mind is very frightening.

I've been wearing a lot of black lately. Promise next post will be colorful.

Crazy face

2010-03-16T15:19:00.003-05:00

UO sweater dress, target tights, express vest, asos boots

Past weekend consisted of:

- gay bar. SO FUN.

- dog park. Fun for the dogs.

My dogs are considered small in size, but the small dog side of the dog park looked too calm and relaxing for this crazy one:

M.I.A

2010-03-10T00:32:00.003-06:00

F21 shirt, express jeggings, ASOS boots, F21 accessories

Yes I know.. It's been awhile. But I've been uninspired lately, so I came back with just a simple outfit post. But I'm working on some projects too, so I'm keeping busy! I'm not just being lazy, I promise. =)

Oscars was this past Sunday, so I just wanted to share some of my favorite red carpet moments....

SANDRA BULLOCK-

There have been mixed reviews, but I think Sandra Bullock looked pretty and elegant.

Also, I'm happy she won best actress in a leading role.

DEMI MOORE-

It probably would have been better if it didn't blend in with her skin tone, but I really liked the details of this dress.

QUEEN LATIFAH-

Well, she's just awesome.

(all pics from oscars.com)

PART II: Night

2010-02-22T09:18:00.003-06:00

F21 tank and accessories, H&M leggings, necklace from Macy's, jacket mom bought in china

updating with the sequel to my PART 1 post from earlier. So this was my "night" look with the same shirt from F21.

Actually it kind of looks like I should have switched the outfits around. My "night" look actually looked more "day" after reviewing the pictures again. ha.

Anyway, I don't really have anything special to say. I really just wanted to post this part II look before it was wayyy too late if it isn't already. =P

OH but I do want to say that I really appreciated everyone's comments on my previous post and all the lip smoothing advice. I've actually tried most of those methods but none have really worked for me. I think it's because scrubbing my lips is really painful to me. Actually the Clinique All About Lips has done me well! Lips are less dry and less flaky after a few days of use. Very goot!

Also follow me on twitter if you haven't yet!

All About Lips

2010-02-17T10:45:00.003-06:00

Lately I've been on this crazy lip thing where all my heart desires is to look at lip products.

i.e. lipstick, lipbalm, lipgloss, lip cream.

Also my lips have been super dry this winter and having taken up this habit of always wearing lipstick, I haven't really been putting on lipbalm 24/7 like I use to. Add on this outrageously cold Houston weather this year, my lips look like dried up prunes. YUCK.

So this weekend I thought I would try to put a stop to my dry lips and I remembered this one product that Chanel makes: Precision Ultra Correction Lip

I tested this about 2 years ago, and it made my lips super soft and smooth! It's a cream that you smooth onto your lips. It's a bit wet and greasy at first but then totally dries and leaves you lips exfoliated, soft and plump. But I decided not to fork out $65 for it at the time.

Well this weekend I was considering it, but because I'm so lucky, Chanel has decided to discontinue this product and replace it with, I can only assume, the same thing that comes with a $20 increase.

The new product is still in their Precision line but comes in a sleek black jar and is called Ultra Correction Lift one for the eyes and one for the lips:

Well I was only THIS close to getting it at $65 but for $85?? Not so much. I roamed around looking for an alternative. So I saw this: Clinique's All About Lips.

This does pretty much the same thing as the Chanel one, but it's not as thick so you really have to rub it into your lips. It's probably not as good either, but for 1/4 of the price, I could live with it.

When I was leaving I also saw this: Origins Lip Remedy.

I stopped to look at it but didn't actually test it. The consistency looks the same as both the Clinique and Chanel products, so its probably the same? Not sure. I also don't know the price since there was no one around for me to ask. If someone uses Origins one please fill me in!!

I do have to say that for me this product does not really moisturize, even though it makes your lips soft it's actually more of a dry softness as opposed to a lip balm that leaves a glossy film feeling. But it's a good exfoliator AND also works great as a lip primer! =)

** pssstt - follow me on Twitter. (I've had it for awhile, but just recently started to use it. =P )

VDAY dinner and flowers

2010-02-15T18:58:00.004-06:00

For Vday, the Fiance (for the FIRST TIME) made dinner for us! I have to say that at first I was pretty skeptical, he's just not a cooking type of person, but he really wanted to so why not?

He insisted that I not be at the apatment while he prepared so I went out and spent 2 hours in target. I LOVE target, but 2 hours is a long time in one store.

So when I got home the table was all set with soup, wine and a lovely piece of chicken steak. YUM! It's not much but I was still pretty impressed.

Roses Fiance had delivered to my office on Friday. =)

No outfit to post since we didn't dress up for the event and ate dinner in our regular home clothes. =P

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

PART 1: day

2010-02-12T14:43:00.004-06:00

F21 tank and studded jacket, express harem pants, BCBG booties, Fiance's watch, DIY arrow necklace

Last Friday I had the day off from work so I spent the day running all over town looking for some finishing touches to my lady gaga oufit and buying hairspray for an over seas friend only to discover that we're not allowed to send hairspray. Also, I probably shouldn't have worn heels.

I don't usually wear red lipstick during the day, but I decided to try it. It's very empowering. =)

** I wore the same shirt that night for a little drinking and dancing, which is the part 2 of this post. **

Happy Chinese New Year!

GA GA OH LA LA!!!!!!!

2010-02-08T21:53:00.002-06:00

Issa's Lady Gaga themed birthday party!!!

Fiance was not in the mood. =( oh wells.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISSA!!!!!!!!

for you i bleed myself dry

2010-02-04T19:09:00.005-06:00

express t-shirt, F21 leopard pants and accessories, MAC lipstick in Rebel

I haven't been doing much lately besides work, eat, going to the gym, and then watching lots of tv. Or watching Fiance play 2K10 or MAG. - shrug.

I also have been reading the Mercedes Thompson series by Patricia Briggs.

I've posted before how I always walk into a book store and wind up in the Teen/Young Adult section, because I'm drawn to all the fantasy novel, preferably with a little vampire or werewolf action. Well a friend kindly recommended the exact same type of books to me that are not YA and of course I jumped at it, but not until I've finished what I had just purchased. - Yea I have this thing about not skipping over books just to read another book. Yes they have feelings too.

So anyway, to conclude - I'm hooked! These books are like the perfect mix of suspense, romance and fantasy all revolved around one kick ass girl. I've read all 4 books in the series so far and I'm waiting impatiently for the 5th one to come out in March. aaah the anticipation!

But who can resist hot steamy werewolves and dark mysterious vampires? Come on.

Yellow by Coldplay has been on repeat for awhile now.....

I blame the vampires.

Dallas Weekend

2010-01-27T11:38:00.002-06:00

Tramanh: Alexander Wang dress, Gucci shoes
Erica: French Connection dress, Colin Stuart shoes

Phi-style and I at our friend's wedding in Dallas. *CONGRATULATIONS!!*

2 nights and one full day in Dallas = drinks, more drinks and late night feasting in the hotel room. Can't get any better than that!

jewelry binge

2010-01-25T19:43:00.002-06:00

Last weekend I coerced Fiance to take me to the mall to stock up on Wallflower refills from Bath and Body Works. If you didn't know Wallflowers are the best by the way. They're regularly $12.50 for 2 refills bulbs but they go on sale frequently for a mere $6! Sometimes even $5!!

So anyway I stocked up like crazy then decided to stop by F21 and picked up some jewelry. My ikea bowl is starting to overflow...

Same outfit as my previous post. Playing around with my Canon.

Day and Night

2010-01-19T10:27:00.004-06:00

day - F21 shirt, H&M leggings, express cardigan, faux leather jacket from HK, la dama rosary

As I was setting up my tripod and camera Fiance announced that he wanted to take the pictures for me. Lets just say, I'm very self-conscious when there are other people around (YES even with the Fiance), so please excuse my awkwardness. Especially that arm on head picture, WUT DOING?

night - Vince tank, express cardigan, Anthropologie hat, H&M leggings, ASOS boots, la dama rosary, F21 accessories

I was lazy to think up a new outfit for night time festivities, so I just wore the same thing. Well different shirt and added a hat, but basically almost identical to my day outfit. =P

Fiance and I just finished watching Lord of the Rings trilogy. I've already seen it when it came out in the theatres, but he had not seen it yet so we netflix-ed it. But man, it was LONG! Return of the King was like 4 hours?! GEEZ. Well, I enjoyed it nonetheless.

Fiance's favorite part? The living dead army. He said they looked like ants swarming the giant elephant. =)

my bed is too big for just me

2010-01-08T20:55:00.005-06:00

AA tri-blend scrimmage shirt, F21 harem pants, steve madden OTK boots, F21 accessories

I've been in a blogging slump. Maybe it's the weather or it's the holiday blues, but I have been just plain LAZY. I still read all comments and really do appreciate everyones congratulatory comments on my previous post. =)

I did manage to get one outfit picture though taken last week before this crazy freezing weather we have here in Houston. I'm finding myself not knowing what to wear everyday, because I just don't have the right clothes for 24 degree weather. COME ON IT'S HOUSTON.

Anyway, I got myself a xmas present over the holiday and have been waiting patiently and it finally arrived!! EXCITINGS.

CANON XS SLR CAMERA. (!!!!!)

The first day it came I was constantly clicking away while reading the manual. So much that Fiance (calling him this is still foreign to me) told me to stop.....

Pets are the best things to capture on camera. =)

currently listening to Can You Discover? by Discovery

WHATEVER YOU LIKE

2009-12-30T09:12:00.007-06:00

VEGAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And Gilt Groupe giveaway winner!!

So we've been back from Vegas for a little over a week now, and boy did we have fun. Too much fun actually, to the point where most of us came back with some sort of sickness. I've been coughing, sniffling, and literally dragging myself out of bed every morning and then barely making it to work on time. BLARGH.

Anyway, the pics above are just some of the pictures we took during our trip. Then right after that boy group shot THIS HAPPENED......

OMG. WUT HAPPENING?

The BF popped the question and now we're ENGAGED!!!!!!!

Whatever you like by T.I. is what he originally wanted to propose to me to, but that fell through Vegas being all hectic and all.
Apparently he deemed this song to be OUR song without my knowledge. But it's cool, I guess.

Also congratulations Kristy for being the winner of my Gilt Groupe giveaway! Lucky you!
Thank you everyone for entering and happy new year. =)

Xmas for the dogs

2009-12-25T21:29:00.005-06:00

Chewie being Santa

Butter is the Reindeer

Chewie being mopey Santa (he doesn't like clothes)

WUT.

"i see it!"

Being scolded at

Merry Christmas everyone! Hope everyone had a great day.

Oh yea, Vegas was crazy. MOAR of that later. =)

Don't forget to enter my Gilt Groupe Giveaway! It ends TOMORROW NIGHT!

GIVEAWAY FOR YOU

2009-12-19T10:18:00.003-06:00

express vest, AA sexuali-tank, target skirt and thigh highs, F21 shoes and accessories, Rachel Roy sequin bag

Gilt Groupe came to Houston for a premiere event of the movie "Apparition's The Young Victorian" followed by a hip and fab cocktail party at Hotel Zaza. Tramanh, Issa, and I were very honored to be invited to this event. Unfortunately due to some time issues we could not attend the movie, but we were able to attend the cocktail party and it was a fashionable event indeed!

We also got to meet the founders of Gilt, Alexis and Alexandra and score some great swag bags!

Gilt has offered to do a swag bag giveaway to my readers, YES THATS YOU!

INSIDE SWAG BAG:

$100 Gift Card to Gilt Groupe (!!!!)

$50 Gift Card to Hotel Zaza to be used anywhere at the Houston or Dallas locations
Cranberry Toner from Arcona
Within, by BCBGMAXAZRIA Fragrance
Lip Glosses by Smashbox
Wrinkle Resist Plus Pore Minimizer by Dr. Howard Sobel

To enter just leave a comment on this post and I will randomly choose a winner. Contest will close next Saturday, December 26.

We're off to Vegas now!!!

YEEUHHH

ONE YEAR OLD - WILD STYLE

2009-12-13T14:44:00.019-06:00

Tramanh: Opening Ceremony body suit, F21 shorts and tights, Marni shoes, DIY flower necklace/crown

me (Air): F21 tank, express bra, UO high-waisted shorts, F21 otk boots, UO glasses

Tramanh: AA Sexuali-Tank, F21 tights, AA gold chain, RA Creations father headband, F21 bracelets and rosary

me (Air): F21 tank, target leggings, F21 accessories

Tramanh: Vintage tee, AA shorts, AA gold chain, UO belt, F21 shoes, Erica Anenberg ring

me (Air): UO shirt, target shorts and thigh highs, YSL Tribute pumps, BR and F21 accessories

BLOGIVERSARY TIME.

Yesterday marked the 1 year anniversary of Clouds of Tulle!!! To celebrate I joined up with

Phi Style for a photoshoot shot by Dru!!! of WWT.

Wildfox Couture being the inspiration, awkwardness ensued while we threw food (popcorn) at each other, sat in a bath tub with a dog in costume, and played in the shower.

This being my first photo-shoot, it went by so much faster than I had imagined. Basically we got into position and before we even knew it, Dru!!! was already clicking away on his camera.

Dru!!! now has a newly launched website, StudioDru. Check it.

JUST SNOW

2009-12-07T18:49:00.013-06:00

Marc by Marc Jacobs sweater, AA tulip skirt, target tights, F21 booties

Long overdue outfit from Thanksgiving weekend.

It SNOWED in Houston this past friday.

Everyone in the office was practically oogling at it all - it was as if they've never seen snow before...

COME ON GUYS it's just snow.

ok I admit, there was a moment where it was almost like a mini blizzard and I guess it was pretty cool.

Recently Tramanh and I got together for a photoshoot - shot by StudioDru aka Dru!!! of WeWearThings.

Here's an outtake:

Tramanh's Fiance being all set director.

MOAR TO COME SOON!

Miike Snow's Black and Blue came on while the BF was playing NBA 2K10. And I was all WUT.

why you wear my shirt

2009-12-01T14:35:00.002-06:00

bf's white shirt, express shiny leggings, vintage belt, F21 shoes

Threw on bf's white shirt on Thanksgiving eve for a Rockets game, then kept it on for a night out paired with some shiny leggings and a red belt for a pop of color. This is actually similar color scheme as my work outfits.

The bf was all, "are you wearing my shirt?" - YES I AM. Stare. shrug. walk away.

That night I got to see a lot of people I had not seen in awhile including AIRA owners, Karen and Annie! It was a good night.

Thanksgiving was equally as nice, good company who always provide me with a good laugh. =)

too crazy

2009-11-24T23:21:00.003-06:00

UO silk tank, F21 silk pants, zara shoes, F21 accessories

I really need some new shoes because I keep wearing the same ones (although the bf would beg to differ).

The night I wore this consisted of a whole lot of craziness~ lets just leave it at that.

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!

It's the fire marshal, not me

2009-11-18T09:14:00.003-06:00

F21 jumpsuit, F21 studded faux leather jacket, steve madden otk boots

We went to meet up some friends for a birthday at a bar we've never been to before. We got to the entrance the bouncer said that they were at full capacity. Seeing as we can see the inside of the place, which was clearly NOT crowded, I instantly thought - ugh is it because we're asian again?

- Cuz well, honestly I'm really sick of not being let into clubs because we're asian.

We proceed to say that all our friends are upstairs already and why can't we go in? And the bouncer was all, it's the fire marshal - not me.

- Oh, so it's NOT because we're asian? RLY?

Eventually we got in, but was not allowed to go upstairs, due to over capacity, and the fire marshal has already shut them down twice. But all of our friends are upstairs....

Evidently it WAS the fire marshal because we saw cop car parked in front of the place for a good 20 min.

- I guess it's OK then.

where did winter go?

2009-11-12T10:04:00.003-06:00

target denim leggings, H&M shirt, express vest, Steven by SM pumps

I've gone into lazy mode once again. With the weather changing every two days it is just tiring trying to keep up!

Hot, cold - hot, cold. make up your mind!

Anyway, these photos taken some few weeks back. Please excuse the flying labels hanging from our new chair, and my curious dog. =)

So I started a wish list for X-mas while surfing the internet and browsing through blogs. I came across this:

Marc by MJ Classis Q Natasha shoulder bag

I want so bad - in black.

Where's Santa Claus?

NERD COUPLE

2009-11-03T09:24:00.009-06:00

BF and I being NERD COUPLE.

group shot.

Scooby Gang.

All these costumes prepared the day of or the day before halloween.
I had to frantically search for an orange turtleneck sweater....

Visit phi style for more.

uniform

2009-11-02T18:04:00.005-06:00

target skirt, aa tri-blend cardigan, target knee high socks, bcbg heels

I didn't realize till after I had put every thing on that I look like a catholic school girl.

hmm, should I change?

Eh no time.

maybe I should have gone without the shirt inside the cardigan....... haha

hope everyone had a great Halloween! Pics of mine coming soon =)

a little sparkle

2009-10-29T15:30:00.009-05:00

asian website dress/tunic, asos boots, revlon matte lipstick in "strawberrery suede"

Photos taken about 2-3 weeks ago, when Houston had a mini-cold weekend.
Currently it's rainy, musty and humid. bleh.

Oct. 31 is just around the corner and I haven't the slightest idea what to do or be.

When did holidays become so stressful?

in the morning

2009-10-21T19:05:00.010-05:00

aa sexuali tank, aa bra, skirt from japanese site, F21 shoes and accessories

These pics taken after concert, it was all stumble stumble.

me, tramanh, and issa at JUNIOR BOYS!!

They were so good AND cute.

It was an Halloween themed concert, but I had no time for dressing up. =(

MOAR concerts please

2009-10-20T15:31:00.003-05:00

hanes shredded t-shirt, UO shorts, steven by SM boots, target headband

(the shredded t-shirt is bf's original that i made, i stole it for the night)

Last week we went to see Muse + U2.

Before the concert I didn't listen to Muse at all. So I downloaded their two most recent albums and put it on repeat on my ipod. They're great and I love them, so you can imagine my disappointment when we totally missed them all together.

UGH.

Traffic going to the Reliant Stadium that night was so horrible, we didn't even get to hear them from outside the building, or see them walk off the stage. Atleast! But it's ok, they might come to Houston again for their Spring tour and U2 was awesome, of course. =)

Junior Boys tonight!

so much damage

2009-10-18T19:21:00.004-05:00

express studded blazer, aa sexuali-tank, target shorts and tights, Colin Stuart shoes,

F21 accessories

Last week Houston had a little cold front, so I wore tights.

By the end of the night the tights had sustained quite some damage.

First it was a snag from a dog or a counter top which turned into a huge run up and down my right leg, THEN a hole from a cigarette burn on my left thigh.

Lets just say I'm glad I didn't wear my wolford tights.

Just dinner and drinks

2009-10-14T14:32:00.006-05:00

target dress, F21 fringe booties

Wore this for dinner and drinks last week.
This dress is from like, oh I don't know, maybe 2-3 years ago?
I think next time I wear this I will shorten it a couple of inches. LEGS SO SHORT.

The booties from F21 were $4.99 when I got them. SO CHEAP I couldn't pass it up.

I <3 matte

2009-10-12T17:16:00.004-05:00

From left to right: pink about it, strawberry suede, really red, and wine not

I heart matte - Revlon matte lipstick.

In my previous post, I said I wanted to buy more....

And that's exactly what I did.

pssst! They're currently buy 1 get 1 free at CVS with your CVS card.

wearing "wine not"

plum shades are totally in this season btw.

I'd do it again

2009-10-09T16:40:00.003-05:00

UO tank, F21 pants, urbanog.com shoes

Wore this last week for BF's birthday dinner at Max's Wine Dive.

I had made reservations for a table but apparently they only hold reserved tables for 15 min.
So when we got there, they said that they had given our table away and that the wait would be 45 min. I looked at the time and it was 7:16pm, our reservations were for 7:00.

.........

SRLY? How did they even give it away SO FAST?

So anyway, we had to wait 1 hour before we got seated, and another 30-45 min before our food came out. By then it was 9:00pm, we were HUNGRY and the wine was definitely not helping. When our food was here, we scoured it like hungry wolves in 15-20 min.

Definitely not coming back right?

Well we all agreed that even though they gave away our reserved table because we were 1 min. late AND THEN made us wait another 2 hours, that we would still come back and do it again. The food is THAT good.

I recommend the Southern Fried Chicken, Fried Egg Sandwich, and the Yama Kobe Beef Burger.

Menu

Seeing Red

2009-10-07T09:37:00.003-05:00

UO high waisted shorts, VS silk cashmere tank, zara shoes, F21 necklace, french connection belt

This tank top started as a mystery to me. I wasn't sure where that middle seam was supposed to be, so I kept on trying to pull it down so that it would be like an empire waist seam. But that definitely did not work. But is it really supposed to lay in the middle of my boobs?

Well apparently IT DOES.
I know because I cheated went on the VS website to look at the model picture again.

We just booked tickets to Las Vegas. YAY!

I've only been there once and I was 12, with my aunt and cousins. All I remember are rows and rows of arcade games and waiting 3 hours for my aunt and cousin to finish watching the fabulous shows, while my other underage cousin and I wander around the small area for underage folks. Mind you I was 12, three hours to a 12 year old is like an eternity! Not so fun. Also we had run out of change for the games in about 10 min. I have no idea why my aunt thought $3 for the each of us was enough to last 3 hours.

So this time I'm super excited! Can't wait.

Picked up this new Revlon Matte Lipstick in "really red", it has become my new favorite and I want to wear it all the time. I might even buy all the shades it comes in.....

All about the Heels

2009-10-01T21:03:00.004-05:00

VS dress, target cardigan, vintage belt, Colin Stuart heels

Wore this last week on Friday to work for casual Friday.

I've always in the past ordered clothes from VS, but always ended up returning them, but I was somewhat satisfied with this dress. Although it has to be worn with a belt or else I just feel pregnant in it.

People always ask me why I still wear heels on "casual friday", and I'm like... uh WHY NOT?!

make a bold statement..... with a necklace

2009-09-16T21:15:00.005-05:00

white shirt (forgot from where), old navy wide leg pants, necklace from my mom

The bf is out of town this week.

Things I've learned:

1. my dogs follow me EVERYWHERE - even if it's only five feet from the couch to the tv

2. I tend to leave all the lights on in the apt.

3. I don't eat dinner.

4. my dogs sleep RIGHT next to me, one on each side - I use to think they slept next to me because the bf kicks them, but apparently they just like sleeping RIGHT next to me. SHRUG. No wonder I wake up sore every morning.

5. real time television is great (as opposed to downloading)

6. Kanye West is an ass.

Poll: Which story should win the session?

2009-09-08T15:34:00.004-05:00

Poll: Which story should win the session?

Hi Everyone!
If you haven't yet, please read STORY 1 and vote for Tramanh of phi-style and her fiance!

Side Swept

2009-09-03T09:17:00.006-05:00

F21 tunic, random skirt, Colin Stuart heels, F21 necklace, AA bra

My bangs are getting long and it is just way too hot right now in Houston to maintain them. Maybe when it gets cooler I'll consider them again. But for now they're swept to the side.

For those Houstonians, have any of you heard of United Way? They're this non-profit organization that supposedly helps out the community during any kind of situation or disaster, such as Hurricane Ike. Well they came to the office during a staff meeting we have once a month to promote the organization in hopes to collect donations.

Yea you're thinking, OK COOL SO WHAT?

So they passed out these donation pamphlets to everyone and asked everyone to please donate, even a dollar would be sufficient, blah blah blah. I looked at the pamphlet, and I DO consider donating, that is until my job informs us that we are all required to donate.

EXCUSE ME? REQUIRED?

I don't know about you guys but I don't really think that I should be FORCED to donate my own money right? RIGHT? Obviously my boss does not think so, but I still stood my ground in not giving up my money.

Well after the deadline for donations, our boss (owner of the bank) told all the managers of each department that every employee must donate and that he needs a list of all the people who don't.

WHAT?!! YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME RIGHT?

I really don't have anything against donating to organizations that help people, but I DO have a problem if I'm being told that I'm required to. I mean come on, what are you? communists?

Anyway, on a happier note. For those of you that read phi-style must have already voted for them right? RIGHT?? well if not, PLEASE DO! Tramanh and her fiance are contestants to win a free photo session!! Very exciting.

Read their story and PLEASE VOTE: STORY #1.

My dog says HI with crazy face.

Oh No I Didn't...

2009-08-26T18:15:00.005-05:00

F21 skirt, BeBe silk tank, asos heels

Thank you all for sticking around, despite all my laziness!

The other day I wandered into Borders for a book or two, and I swear I always involuntarily end up in the Young Adults/Teen section. Just like that other day. I'm browsing and walking down aisles of books, pick up this one, read the synopsis, and I instantly want to buy.

OH But wait - I do a once-over of the cover and I see the word TEEN. WHAT? AGAIN? Ok, no I will not buy this book! Not another YA book, no.. no.. NO.

So I put the book down, walk around. I think I went back to that book about 3 times the whole time I was the book store. NO KIDDING. But after much self control and determination for not reading another YA book, I walked out with two OTHER books.

YAY I did it.

Peony In Love and Water For Elephants

Laziness has taken over....

2009-08-14T13:43:00.004-05:00

old navy shorts, BeBe cropped tank, SM shoes, F21 accessories

It's been a long time! I've been so lazy with the outfits and nothing has been worthy to take pics of. Hopefully I'll be back on track soon!

This outfit was from about 2-3 weeks ago (yes that's how lazy I have been).

On another note, Blue is in Fashion has featured me on her blog, check it out.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Just another Thursday Night

2009-07-27T18:46:00.003-05:00

target dress, colin stuart pumps, F21 cuff, crazy puppy

aaah... greasy hair causing bangs to split apart. So not flattering.

Dinner last week with Tramanh and Co. at Voice. Can't beat $25 for a 3 course meal!

We had fun camera time afterwards, check it out on phi-style.

new places

2009-07-21T23:33:00.003-05:00

express outfit, uo glasses

Please excuse the boring work outfit. I had a little extra time this morning and decided to give everyone a glimpse of my new apt. It's not all settled yet inside so only the balcony will be available at this time for pictures.

old pics

2009-07-17T20:50:00.003-05:00

AA tulip skirt, target tank, zara heels

Still cleaning up the new place therefore no pictures yet.

These photos taken about 2 weeks ago for phi-style's birthday, still at the old apartment.

Went to work hungover today. Not very smart.

I don't think I made sense at all to anyone.

Moving Frenzy

2009-07-14T16:32:00.003-05:00

I am wearing F21 jumpsuit.

Packing packing packing - moving moving moving.

Moving apartments have turned into total frenzy! We have both apartment until the 25th of July which means procrastinating in bringing everything over at once. Which is good but at the same time not so great, and very time consuming.....

Did you bring the dish washer detergent?

No.

How we gonna wash dishes then?

I don't know.

Did you bring my suit?

No.

What am I going to wear to work tomorrow?

I don't know.

Yea, we made lots of extra trips back to the old place to get random stuff.

All this commotion also meant that I did not get a chance to take outfit pics from this past weekend. We'll just deal with these macbook photobooth pics they had at a friend's going away party. It was like the whole deal... macbook, spotlight, and photo printer! It was quite fun.

(phi-style and phi-style fiance included)

Packing....

2009-07-10T15:39:00.004-05:00

F21 dress, BCBG peep toe booties

Tomorrow is moving day. I should be packing. I took my last vacation day of the year for packing.

Am I packing?

I'm really just sitting here wondering how in the world did we cumulate so much stuff this past year. Maybe I should stop buying shoes?

MAYBE.

AIRA

2009-07-08T12:13:00.003-05:00

When I first heard that my friend from college and her little sister had started their own line of clothing, I was like - What?! REALLY?! Awesome!!

Then I went to the website.... and I was totally impressed.
But I was not too surprised, since she was a total fashionista already back in college.
(seriously always eye-ing her with envious stares, haha)

Well anyway, please check out their website for their fabulous Spring 2009 collection. The drapery is to die for.....

Two of my favorites:

Also, their new Love Traveling Bag now available for purchase here!!
They're reversible and come in three different colors.
They also have the Love sling-bag. Check it out!

Cute right?!

** all photos from Airanyc.com

Happy 07.04.09

2009-07-04T20:11:00.004-05:00

F21 silk tank, shoes, necklace, target shorts, UO glasses, new hair

Happy July 4th everyone!

(Dogs think I'm getting them treats. but I'm not.)

Pre-Bangs

2009-07-03T11:52:00.005-05:00

target dress, Steven by SM ankle boots, F21 belt and accessories

Last entry that's Pre-bangs.

I braved the scorching hot Houston weather and wore these boots.

Not too hot surprisingly.

Happy 4th of July everyone!!! stay cool if you're in Houston!

I only get a regular weekend off, no three day weekend for me..... damn banks.

P.S. post bangs pictures to come....

- Contemplation -

2009-07-01T08:38:00.005-05:00

on the way to work. cheapo UO glasses

- saw Transformers last night. Not the BEST movie but quite entertaining.

- haircut tomorrow. Bangs or no bangs? What do you guys think?

(just realized that the A/C in the car is making my hair fly everywhere in this picture, haha!!)

When clubbing fails - karaoke is the answer

2009-06-27T14:19:00.005-05:00

express shorts, James Perse tank, H&M vest, AA bra, DIY F21 studded heels, F21 accessories

Oops, nine days since my last post. Haven't had any chances to take good photos of recent outfits. All pictures had to be discarded due to bad lighting. =(

What I wore to a karaoke bar last night with a co-worker. I don't know if you guys have experience with an asian infested karaoke bar, but people don't usually dress like this inside. So why was I? Because the original clubbing plan had failed. I think the whole place was looking at me like I was crazy.

Mosquitos have been hovering in the hallway right outside of the apt. Every time we open the door, at least 2-3 come flying in. As a result, I now have 9 bites on my face. YES NINE.

I made a point to keep my arms and legs under the covers since they were originally biting my arms, but as a last resort they have come for my face. At least you can't see the bumps on my face in these pictures.

I haven't decided if I want to suffocate myself yet, but I might just have to.

Moving in two weeks! SO excited.

"Killer" pose

2009-06-19T13:41:00.003-05:00

A/X denim dress, BCBG Shoes

This last picture was the "killer" pose - literally.

me: "ow. ow. owww!!!"

bf: "what? what?"

me: "i twisted my neck doing this pose" (i show the picture to him)

bf: " hahahahaha"

me: scowl

This just proves that I need more exercise.

You can't see but I'm sweating bullets in these pictures. Why so hot? ugh.

I wore this to dinner last Sunday with some friends. This dress is a petite size 2, they also had size petite zero but it was SUPER small, and so tight. I could not even button the buttons. SAD.
It was also originally $135, then went down to $90 but I found it at the outlet for $20! And I was like what? This is proof of the recession.

Give me Sleep

2009-06-17T08:08:00.004-05:00

aa tulip skirt and bra, express sheer tee, vintage belt, SM shoes, F21 necklace

I don't think I remember most of this night. But it was CRAZY. There was pre-party and there was a post-party and there was hungover-ness the next day. SO SAD. haha

My face does not match my crazy tan and why do my ankles look so skinny in these pictures?

The other day my car overheated on the way to my parents house for dinner. And I freaked out hoping that the engine would not blow up. The meter hand was all the way up at the H, which is NOT GOOD. So I ended up leaving my poor car at my parents and bf came to pick me up.

But no car means no sleep.

Bf has been dropping me off at work everyday. I usually have to be at work 45 min after he does. Him dropping me off means I have to be at work at 730am - 1 hour and 15 mins before I normally have to be there. Yes it sucks, and yes I'm VERY TIRED. And it does not help that it's 100 degrees outside either.

Casual Thurday Night

2009-06-15T11:58:00.005-05:00

express pants, AA sexuali-tank and bra, zara shoes, F21 accessories

Eh sorry for bad pictures. Terrible lighting. I like how Chewie is all.. what?! what you want?

Casual Thursday night out.

Almost empty club.

Hot, humid night.

Group of friends chatting up on our great mastermind ideas.

On a different note, I got featured on Gilt Groupe!

Q&A here.

17 at heart

2009-06-12T18:19:00.007-05:00

F21 jumpsuit & glasses, H&M bracelet, BeBe sandals

hmm this was also worn before the vacation. I guess I'll be going back in time from now on....

Actually I just didn't have a chance to post these before I left for cozumel so I'm doing it now.

I wore this for a casual lunch date with my friend. It was soo comfy.

Just wanted to throw in a picture of my loved ones. =)

Butter on the left, Chewie on the right. They luv each other.

Last night I finished reading the last book of a Young Adult three part series call The Mortal Instruments.

I know, I know you think I'm silly and ridiculous. What's a 27 year old doing reading a YA book? Call me crazy but I enjoyed it. It was easy to read, the plot was interesting enough to make me not want to sleep at night, so why not? I finished the whole entire 2nd book on the beach and it was fun! So I'm really 17 at heart. haha

Apparently some people have call this a cross between Harry Potter and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Which is pretty accurate I guess, except the main characters are both human and it's not only about vampires but demons in general. AND the teenagers are normal, contrary to the ones in Twilight. It's definitely has more juicy details then just kissing. BUT I have to say that Twilight was still better. =)

So when I finished the book last night, slightly buzzed, I was sad that it was over. But I get sad when every book I read is over. It's kind of like a feeling of - so what am I going to do now? haha but don't worry I got over it. Besides I can just read it again. *shrug*

Anyway, I'm planning on getting serious with the next book I read called Lake with No Name. The Daily Obsession recently wrote an entry on this book and it immediately captured me. A true story of a girl and her life during the time of the Tiananmen Square Massacre, better known Six-four in the chinese society. It intrigued me mostly because its a true story of a girl and her struggles through this time including a forbidden love, and it chronicles a piece of chinese history that I did not know much about.

So the book is ordered and on its' way to me. I can't wait. Tell you guys about it after I'm done!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Don't wanna grow up

2009-06-09T20:14:00.007-05:00

F21 pocket tank, jeans, & jewelry, Modern Vintage shoes

This was before friend's wedding, before vacation. My timeline is all messed up apparently. haha. This was the debut of my first Gilt Groupe purchase, and I heart them!

I sometimes wish I was still in school, just so I could wear whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. Now it seems that I have to put outfits aside for the weekend or for going out purposes.

Who the hell wants to wait that long! I want to wear that outfit now!

Unfortunately working in a strictly professional attire industry, it doesn't work that way. Though I DO like to put together stylish, work appropriate outfits I wish I wasn't so restricted, especially since I work at a bank.

boo.

Back and burned from Cozumel

2009-06-08T17:44:00.011-05:00

F21 cover-up and sunnies, Bernardo "miami" sandals, swim suit from Macy's.

yay I'm back in good ol' Houston, TX.

well not really "yay", but it's good to be home I guess.

Cozumel was great, it was perfect. Laying on the beach all day, a little bit of snorkeling, a long day of touring the island on a jeep, and drinking all day everything. Everything was perfect. Although bf and I both got a little sun burned. Ouch.. not good.

I couldn't ask for a better vacation.

It's good to be back and blogging!!